Wines Nahe Dönnhoff - Höllenpfad am Mühlenberg Riesling GG - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The 2019 Dönnhoff Höllenpfad am Mühlenberg Riesling GG is a prime example of German dry Riesling at its most expressive. This wine hails from the prestigious Grosses Gewächs (GG) category, denoting a dry wine of exceptional quality from a top classified vineyard. Crafted solely from Riesling, the hallmark white grape of Germany, this cuvée showcases the unique terroir of Höllenpfad, a renowned vineyard located within the Nahe appellation. The 2019 vintage benefitted from favourable weather, yielding wines of great clarity, purity, and tension. Vinification at Dönnhoff is meticulous: careful hand harvesting, gentle pressing, and fermentation in stainless steel or large old oak casks to preserve the aromatic profile and minerality of the wine.

The Nahe region, nestled between the Mosel and Rheinhessen, is celebrated for the diversity and complexity of its soils, ranging from volcanic origins to slate and sandstone compositions, as is the case in Höllenpfad. The climate here is temperate with cool temperatures, allowing for an extended ripening period that enables the Riesling to fully express its aromatic intensity while retaining vibrancy and freshness. Nahe's history as a winegrowing region dates back centuries, but it is in recent decades that estates like Dönnhoff have propelled it to international acclaim with their precision and elegance.

This dry Riesling, with its pronounced minerality, citrus brightness, hints of white peach, and intriguing herbal nuances, is extremely versatile at the table. Classic pairings include dishes that echo its regional roots—think of poached river fish with a dill cream sauce, roast pork with sauerkraut, or a delicate veal schnitzel. Its acidity also makes it an excellent companion for sushi, lightly spiced Asian cuisine, or even a fresh goat’s cheese salad.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not icy, ideally between 9–11°C. A large, tulip-shaped white wine glass will best showcase its complex bouquet and lively palate. If possible, allow it a short decant, as this will help the aromatics unfurl and reveal the wine’s full potential.